Arts | Freeview Flicks of the Week

There’s always a wide selection of great films available on Freeview. And seeing as staying in is the new going out, TV presents the ideal opportunity to catch up on what you might have missed in the cinema. Plus, it saves you spending your student loan on DVDs and rentals. Sometimes the choice can be quite overwhelming, so here at Leeds Student we’ve decided to compile a weekly list of the best films on TV. This week we feature a lot of transport, parties on boats and Grease is indeed the word.

Monday – The Bourne Identity (ITV1 21:00)

A re-watch of this great action film feels necessary after the disappointment of The Bourne Legacy. A gritty, modern and original take on the spy thriller genre, you will constantly find yourself hanging at the edge of your seat wanting more. Matt Damon is the perfect action hero and one of the main reasons Legacy did not work was because his great talent was missing. It is the perfect film to liven up your Monday night!

Tuesday – Full Metal Jacket (ITV4 22:00)

People often argue which of Stanley Kubrick’s films is his best, with Full Metal Jacket being a strong contender. Set during the Vietnam War it explores the effects war has on humanity in an intriguing story. Human nature is really examined in the film in a shocking and horrifying way. This makes the film heavy going, but it is worth it. If you prefer something lighter then Spirited Away is on at 11.00 on Film4, a beautiful animation from Studio Ghibli.

Wednesday – The Escapist (Film4 23:25)

Rupert Wyatt came into the public eye with his fantastic prequel Rise of the Planet of the Apes, but his indie crime thriller The Escapist is where he really shows his talent. From the opening scene you become hooked in the classic escape story that has a great twist at the end. Damian Lewis and Brian Cox particularly stand out from the strong cast, but the real star is Wyatt who has combined the old and new in an impressive fusion. For an older classic The Deer Hunter is on ITV4 at 23:00.

Thursday – Manhunter (ITV4 23:30)

The Silence of the Lambs may be the best film about Hannibal Lecter, but this prequel (based on Thomas Harris’ book, Red Dragon) is also rather fantastic. Brain Cox again stands out as Lecter being cruel, devoid of all emotion and clearly psychopathic, but at the same time he appears as a normal human being who we sometimes even sympathise with. It is a shame he will always be underrated due to Anthony Hopkin’s famous performance, but he is just as good!

Friday – The Boat That Rocked (ITV1 22:45)

This Richard Curtis comedy may not be as good as some of his other films like Notting Hill and Love Actually, but it is rollicking fun with lovable characters and a fabulous soundtrack. Philip Seymour Hoffman is fabulous in this funny story about a pirate radio station. You will find yourself bobbing in your seat along with the great tunes and having fun with this feel good movie, perfect for a Friday night in.

Saturday – Grease (Film 4 18:50)

What can I say about Grease that has not been said already? It is a musical masterpiece with great songs, witty dialogue and a fun storyline. If you are in a bad mood Grease will guarentee to put a massive smile on your face for the rest of the day.

Sunday – Planes, Trains and Automobiles (Film4 23:20)

Comedy films nowadays are completely different to golden oldies like this 1987 hit, which teams up Steve Martin and John Candy in a hilarious road trip to get home in time for Thanksgiving. Like all great comedies it has a big heart in the centre, making you laugh and touching your heart, especially at the end.